October 10, 2025

Welcome to the Friday Waypoint where you'll find the latest updates about opportunities & activities with the Florida Trail Association.

Earlier this year, we invited the Florida Trail community to help rename several campsites in Big Cypress, and the results are in!

In partnership with the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes, we’re proud to announce the official new names.

This update not only celebrates cultural and ecological connections to the land, it also enhances hiker safety by giving each site a clear, distinct name that can help search and rescue teams respond more effectively in an emergency.

✨ New Campsite Names:

• 7 Mile → Woodpecker Camp
• 10 Mile → Okalee Wachekaleshke (Lightning Bug Camp) — pronounced “Wuh cheh kah lesh keh” in Miccosukee
• 13 Mile → Pennyroyal Camp

These names are already reflected in this season’s maps and databook, and updates are coming soon to FarOut. New campsite signage will also be installed in the near future!



A huge thank-you to everyone who shared ideas and to our partners for their continued collaboration in stewarding the Florida Trail. 🌿

There’s still time to enter the FTA x Girls Who Hike Kula Cloth Design Contest!

Submit your original artwork by Monday, October 13th at 5 PM Eastern for a chance to win $100, receive 2 custom Kula Cloths featuring your design, and be featured across FTA and Girls Who Hike channels.

This collaboration celebrates Girls Who Hike Florida, a vibrant community of women who find friendship, empowerment, and adventure on the trail. Through group hikes, stewardship projects, and outdoor education, they inspire more women to connect with nature and each other. 🌿

Not familiar with Kula Cloths? They’re reusable, antimicrobial pee cloths designed for anyone who squats to pee outdoors, helping hikers reduce waste, protect ecosystems, and practice Leave No Trace hygiene while staying comfortable on the trail.

💡 Express your creativity and help inspire sustainable hiking practices across Florida!

👉 Submit your design here: www.Floridatrail.org/design-contest

🌿 Want to Know What Our Partners Are Up To?

From community events to workshops and new program offerings, there's always something going on.

👉 Click here to see upcoming events and opportunities.

Are you hosting an event you'd like us to share?

📣 Fill out this form to share it with us!

From races to community gatherings, these events raise vital funds to protect and maintain the Florida Trail. By joining in, you’re directly supporting the Trail you love.

👉Click here to check out upcoming events.

Have an event to share? Reach out to tisha@floridatrail.org

Visit the FTA Shop to check out our newest arrivals — from lightweight sun hoodies and colorful stickers to guidebooks and more.

🌿 Shop now and gear up for your next adventure.